While you're there

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey

Istanbul is the most important city of Turkey, both in terms of economy and culture. Home to over 13 million people, Istanbul is a thriving city and one of the most populated in Europe. The city is actually transcontinental, meaning that it lies both in Europe and Asia. The city is separated by the Bosphorus, one of the busiest waterways in the world. Istanbul has a 2,500 year long history and any visitor will immediately feel all the splendour of the city when visiting it.

Previously known as Byzantium and then Constantinople and lastly as Istanbul, the city has many important landmarks. Voted as the European city of culture in 2010 and with many UNESCO world heritage sites, visitors will be charmed by the wealth of things to do and see. From the beautiful Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches to the remains of the medieval city walls, heritage holds an important part of the city.

Don’t leave Istanbul without tasting the spicy Adana kebab and the mild Urfa kebab, both of which are made out of mincemeat, shish kebabs, made out of small pieces of veal or lamb. Go to Boğaziçi area in Istanbul to taste the delicious seafood.

The Grand Bazaar is part of any shopping treat in Istanbul. It is a place with its unique culture and rightly so as it is the world’s oldest and biggest bazaar. With more than 3000 shops, it is visited by nearly half a million people every year. You will find spices, textiles, sweets and other Turkish delights.

Istanbul Tourist Office Orhan Birman PlazaTel: +90 212 274 21 90

The city’s tourist office has a helpful personnel, insider information and tips as well as handy maps and brochures. The city’s tourist office also arranges tours and excursions and is a focal point for local accommodation.